The Posies - Solid States (2016)

The iconic band from the Pacific Northwest is now nearing thirty years of making intelligent, hard-to-classify music since releasing a home recorded album, Failure initially as a self-released cassette, in 1988. From their early 60s-tinged retro pop, to their latest work, Solid States, the Posies have always been pushing the boundaries. Folky long before deerskin vests and beards became the standard costume of Seattle; bookish and sensitive long before Death Cab For Cutie had driver's licenses...the Posies have pursued their craft with an unwavering commitment to excellence and experimentation. Musicians from all genres hold the Posies as a touchstone for songwriting craft; indie nerds regularly include the band's 1993 landmark album Frosting on the Beater as a highlight of the decade. Following such major life changes as a move to France for founding members Jon Auer and Ken Stringfellow, and the tragic loss of drummer Darius Minwalla last year, the band has reinvented their sound again with swirling programmed beats & dark synth tones, while still representing their uncanny ability to harmonize and pluck heart strings. Think Kings of Convenience backed by the Books and you have a taste of what this album is about.